…observations from the driver's seat

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…when you are in a left turn lane…turn left! Do not go straight and run the drivers going straight off the road!

…when you are turning right and there are 2 lanes of traffic turning left that have the light…don’t try to “beat” the first one coming at you! It just ticks us off!

…when it is evening, but not quite dark, but there is no sun…turn your lights on! Last night at about 4:30 on my way home, I needed to change lanes on a city street and thankfully caught a glimpse of a car to my right just before I would have pulled into him…dark gray day…dark gray car…no lights…really thankful I didn’t hit him!

…it snowed a bit last night, city streets weren’t horrible this morning, but they weren’t dry…drive accordingly. Even the interstates weren’t in great shape, hence the huge backups around town.

…the “slow” or right lane on the city streets or the interstate is not the passing lane – if we are in that lane and driving the speed limit or slower if the road conditions warrant it, GET OFF MY A**! Your lack of planning to have enough time to arrive at your destination is not my problem, but it could get you injured or killed if you don’t slow down!

…Emerson Avenue runs North/South through the city and from 10th street to Kessler is a 4 lane road…THE SPEED LIMIT IS 40 MPH and there are a couple of SCHOOL ZONES…please at least drive the speed limit and slow down for the school zones!

Rant over and “let’s be careful out there” everyone, remember, getting somewhere quickly is not worth your life!

Celebrating 10 years, it’s time for for Devour Downtown, launching on MLK Day and running through Feb. 1. Participating Devour Downtown restaurants will offer guests pre-fixe menus ranging from $10 – $35 while showcasing specialty dishes and highlighting popular items. Several lunch and dinner menus are two for $30.

Who’s participating this year? Click this link for the full list: Devour Downtown. New participants include: Burgerhaus, Spoke & Steele, Chilly Water Brewing Company, Tow Yard Brewing Company and more.

…other than it is really good with a little Southern Comfort in it? Eggnog is a classic holiday drink, but there are some things you might not know about it…

The origin of the name eggnog is still somewhat of a mystery, it’s thought that the word could be derived from noggin, the Old English word for strong beer. Others credit the name to Colonial America when colonists called thick drinks grog, and eggnog was called egg-and-grog.

Eggnog is believed to be a descendent of a hot cocktail from the fourteenth century known as posset. The drink didn’t contain eggs but was made with sweetened and spiced milk and ale or wine. We would guess that over the years, egg was added.

Did you know that Christmas Eve is also known as National Eggnog Day? What better excuse to make up a batch and enjoy! As an aside, before it was known as eggnog, this traditional holiday drink was called egg milk punch. Our first President, George Washington, served a drink very similar to eggnog at his holiday parties…with significantly more booze…rye whiskey, rum, and sherry.

This was one of my favorite tidbits…following a drunken Christmas party, a melee known as the Eggnog Riot took place at the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., and lasted from Christmas Eve through Christmas morning in 1826. Two days before, cadets snuck in whiskey to make eggnog for the party, which is how the riot got its name.

How about this…according to a medicinal book from the 1800s, eggnog used to be recommended as a treatment for various illnesses, including malaria.

Cultures around the world have their own versions of eggnog, like tamagozake from Japan and auld man’s milk from Scotland. Will you be sharing some of this rich treat on National Eggnog Day?

The historic Lilly House — on the IMA grounds — will twinkle with holiday decorations inspired by the 1930s and 1940s. Amongst the trees, wreaths and greenery, visitors can see ornaments typical of Depression-era frugality and wartime shortages, as well as the exuberance of the post-war era.

The Indiana History Center’s annual holiday festival features an exhibition of historical photographs with a holiday theme. Visitors can also experience a winter wonderland of 25 holiday trees, decorated with themes such as “Home for the Holidays” and “Santa’s Workshop.” Other activities include holiday film screenings, kid-friendly crafts and adult painting classes.

Now in its fifth year, Jingle Rails is a wonderland of model trains, which chug along nearly 1,200 feet of track. They go through tunnels, over bridges and trestles, and past scale models of national landmarks, such as Mount Rushmore and the Grand Canyon. The display also includes local landmarks like Lucas Oil Stadium and Union Station — all decorated for the holidays. Still searching for that perfect holiday gift? Don’t miss the museum’s Winter Market (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6), featuring handmade goods from more than 30 local artists.

Choose from a variety of pop-up art classes, ranging from $20 to $60. Several focus on making glass ornaments, such as snowmen and glass balls. Others guide students through making holiday jewelry or crocheted wire snowflakes. Some classes are family-friendly, while others are perfect for a December date night.

During Jolly Days, the Children’s Museum transforms its staircase into a two-story slide, surrounded by festive holiday décor. Children can “ice skate” in the sock-skating rink and try indoor versions of winter activities like ice fishing. Come Nov. 28 to see Santa arrive in style — not in a sled, but in a race car. The museum also offers several opportunities to breakfast with Santa.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by helicopter Nov. 28 to open the Indiana State Museum’s annual holiday extravaganza. While children make crafts and ride the Santa Claus Express train, parents can explore re-created L.S. Ayres holiday window displays. Other activities include breakfast with Santa, tea parties in the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room, and live music from local bands and choirs.

Back in 1967, the Indianapolis Zoo was the first zoo in the country to hold a holiday lights event, and it’s still going strong in its 47th year. Check out the vibrant holiday displays as you visit the animals — especially ones such seals, polar bears and red pandas that enjoy the cold weather. Visit Santa’s workshop in White River Gardens, enjoy carols performed by local school choirs, sample holiday refreshments, and go on a scavenger hunt for hidden mistletoe throughout the grounds.

Conner Prairie bustles with activity during the holiday season. Families can sign Holiday Adventures — a series of festive daytime activities and crafts in 1836 Prairietown. At night, return for Conner Prairie by Candlelight. The family-friendly Prairietown tour features costumed interpreters, who discuss the history of various holiday traditions. Amid the holiday hustle and bustle, it’s a peaceful, low-tech way to reconnect with the holiday spirit. Afterward, check out Gingerbread Village, featuring dozens of amateur and professional gingerbread creations.

The IMA will offer discounted shopping, as well as live music, free gift-wrapping and refreshments. Watch pottery demonstrations by artist Mary Firestone and preview the new collection from Patricia Locke Handmade Jewelry. Stop by the Jane H. Fortune Gallery to see Paul Gauguin’s “Christmas Night (The Blessing of the Oxen),” one of several artworks with a holiday theme.

Now in its 29th year at Hilbert Circle Theatre, “Yuletide Celebration” features traditions such as tap-dancing Santas and a reading of “Twas the Night before Christmas.” This year, kids will go crazy for tunes from Disney’s “Frozen,” such as “Let It Go” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” The concert also includes a medley of holiday pop hits, such as Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”

Your favorite summer craft fair is back for the holidays, featuring more than 45 vendors of handmade, artisan goods. Check out gift items from Boris Loved Natasha, 1337motif, Get Lathered Soap Company, Growler Girls and several jewelry artisans. You can also pick up gourmet goodies from vendors such as 240sweet, Chocolate for the Spirit, Newfangled Confections and Sage’s Simple Syrups.

More than 25 Stutz artists will offer holiday gift items such as paintings, metal sculptures and jewelry. Also, check out the walls of the Raymond James Stutz Art Gallery, which will be decked out with artwork from more than 90 Stutz artists.

Gallery 924’s third annual holiday show features hundreds of tiny artworks from dozens of Central Indiana artists. It’s an affordable way to start an art collection — or find a unique holiday gift. The show opens Dec. 5 in conjunction with the IDADA First Friday Art Tour.

Join the Indiana Wind Symphony for its “Holiday Dreams” performance, featuring beloved tunes such as “It’s the Most Wonderful Time” and “White Christmas.” There’s a “Silent Night” sing-along, as well as classical selections from “The Nutcracker” and Handel’s “Messiah.” Tickets range from $5 to $40.

This hip pop-up shopping party features more than 120 local vendors, including food artisans, jewelers, visual artists and vintage shops. Enjoy the live music or grab a snack from a nearby food truck, such as Spice Box or Scratchtruck. Beer and wine vendors include New Day Craft, Fountain Square Brewing Co., Sun King Brewing Co. and more.

This annual concert features your favorite holiday music performed by student ensembles from Butler’s Jordan College of the Arts. If you’re seeing the university’s annual “Nutcracker” ballet performance at Clowes Hall, Dec. 4-7, this is a perfect follow-up to keep the holiday spirit alive.

As part of the Great American Songbook Film Series, the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts will screen “White Christmas.” The 1954 classic stars Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye and Rosemary Clooney. Admission is $10.

Several ensembles are performing Handel’s “Messiah” this holiday season, but only the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra offers a sing-along version. Conducted by maestro Kirk Trevor in his farewell season, the performance features four renowned vocal soloists — plus plenty of opportunities for audience participation.

For a more traditional version of Handel’s “Messiah,” pick up tickets to the ICO’s performance on Dec. 14, in conjunction with the Tabernacle Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Choir.

The ISO is known for its extravagant “Yuletide Celebration” (Dec. 5-23). But if you’re looking for a more intimate experience, check out “Classical Christmas.” The performance will be conducted by Raymond Leppard at the cozy Howard L. Schrott Center for the Arts. Tickets are $45.

You’ve probably seen a televised version of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir’s annual “Angels Sing” performance. This year, why not see the real thing? The concert features the ICC’s elite choirs, such as the Indianapolis Youth Chorale and Bel Canto. If you want to see the younger singers, check out the “Celebrate the Season” performance, 12:30 p.m. Dec. 20, also at St. Luke’s.

Indiana’s favorite a cappella ensemble, Straight No Chaser, returns to Indianapolis for four performances at Old National Centre — just in time for Christmas. Keep your fingers crossed for hilarious hits like “The 12 Days of Christmas” and “The Christmas Can-Can,” as well as more traditional holiday favorites.

Many of you know, I’m in the fortunate position to be the Realtor who sold my Grandparents farm recently and as any full service daughter would do, I’ve been working alongside my parents and uncle to clear out the house, garage and barns for the new owners, looks like we might be ready to close in early January!

I know I’ve written before about the tears and memories, and the weekend before Christmas was especially exhausting because we were just getting started, but today was the first time I didn’t feel like crying most of the day. It’s been a lot of work and we have so much more to go…but I thought I would share of few of my favorite memories with the next few posts…since it’s Christmas, let’s start with a few Christmas memories…

Growing up, our Christmas followed a very strict routine…Christmas Eve at Aunt Ruth and Uncle Loren’s…with the entire McKay side of the family. For most of my youth, that meant a big brick house painted red on Main Street in Vevay and later a much smaller home overlooking the river – boy did that house ever seem small with so many of us crammed into it!

Dad worked 2nd Shift most Christmases, so Mom and my sisters, brother and I would go for dinner and gifts then come home and watch the Sound of Music on Channel 3…for you youngins out there, that was before we were able to get satellite out in the country and we only got 2 channels! Then off to bed with us! A lot of the time, we would all sleep in the upstairs bedroom that belonged to Paula and I…then it was Christmas morning! So much fun! Mom always worked really hard to get us each exactly what we wanted, heck she still does!

After a quick breakfast, it was off to Mamma and Pappa Reed’s for Christmas lunch, gifts and and our annual picture of Dad stretched out on the couch asleep…we added a Christmas bow for an accessory and took a picture…we have one for every year up through 1988…He was always exhausted because he never got enough rest at Christmas. It was always a great time, my favorite year was when the “old” pond was frozen over and Pappa dug out his ice skates and we all went ice skating – he was really good! So much fun, then back to the house for hot chocolate and pie!

Then after a great afternoon there, we went back home and Mom’s parents – Granny and Pappa Howie would come up to see what we had all gotten…I have a picture somewhere of Granny sitting on our bean bag chairs we had gotten one year – a better pic would have been her trying to get up!

Bear with me, more memories to come…let’s talk about Easter next time!

March is Women’s History Month and today is International Women’s Day, when we take time to appreciate women’s contributions to society. I strive to lead by and set an example for my five beautiful nieces, to make certain they know they can do anything they choose…the road might not always be easy, but the rewards are worth it!

I grew up on a farm in Madison, Indiana, but I always knew I wanted…more, but I could never define “more”. My beautiful, strong mother set a great example for me. I was fortunate to have grown up knowing two other amazing women, my Grandmothers. Between Mom, Granny (Mom’s Mom) and Mamma (Dad’s Mom), I learned so much about life, love, cooking, and well, just living. I didn’t choose the path that was expected, I could have married, had babies and stayed on the Farm, but they instilled a certainty in me that I could do anything I chose…who knew that it would be a Realtor, changing careers in my late 40’s is something I never expected, but am thrilled that I did and while my Grandmother’s have gone (Granny 28 years ago and Mamma only recently) I’m so fortunate to have my Mom, never wavering in her faith that I will succeed.

Fast forward to today…the strength of the friends I surround myself with (both women and men) astounds me. From those I’m closest to in The Group, My Clients, my fellow Keller Williams agents and the people I have met during my journey…I am so blessed to have them all in my life.

Who inspires you? Do you live your life as an inspiration to others? Click here to see a great MSN slide show on the women who inspire them…who would be on your list?

My fifth wish is that society curb their consumerism…do we really need a bigger TV to be happy? Does constantly accumulating more “things” make you happy? I’m the first to admit…I love shopping! I love nice clothes, purses, coats…and oh the shoes! But do I need them to be happy? Probably not, but the right shoes with the right outfit makes me happy and these red ones, they just make me feel great…

I see people every day, working hard and spending more for things you wonder if they really need or more likely, do their children. Growing up, we had everything we needed, sure there was plenty of stuff we wanted, but I couldn’t tell you now what any of those things were. My favorite things are the experiences we had as a family. My Pappa was a school bus driver and a farmer (goes hand in hand more often than you would think). His route took him past our house for a drop, then he would come back by…we would yell to Mom where we were headed, he’d pick us up at the end of the drive-way and take us home with him. Mamma would add more plates to the table and after Dad got home and finished feeding (we too lived on a farm), he and Mom would come to retrieve us. There was always ice cream (sometimes homemade that we had to crank!) or watermelon and cantaloupe, sitting on the front porch, laughing, talking enjoying the breeze and each other before jumping into the back of the pick-up and heading home.

With Christmas just around the corner, it is a great time to take stock, look around at what you have, decide what you really need before making that Christmas wish list, think about what you have, what you don’t use any more and donate usable items to your favorite charities…Goodwill, Salvation Army, Red Cross…the list is extensive.

My friend (and Co-Blogger) Mary O has a great solution – she has 3 sons, all married, 2 with kids, (1 with dogs) – instead of shopping for things…she takes each family to dinner and an event. Plays, the Circus, Children’s Museum…she is making memories that her Grandchildren will remember for a lifetime…that’s what life is about, not the “things” you accumulate…

What could you live without? What are your wishes for positive change? Please share!